Project: Victorian Kitchen & Bath Remodel, Episode 11, Part 1

See More

Bob learns about the need for secondary exits in upstairs bedrooms from Steve Forman, as contractor Tim Berky installs the Redi-Exit fire escape at the Rowley Victorian. This latching fire escape can hold up to 800 pounds, is weather-proof, and costs about $1,100 installed. Next, AJ Paron-Wildes joins Bob inside to look at lighting fixtures from Bellacor.com that will complement the home's period style and also meet the functional lighting needs of the family. And finally, after Berky finishes hanging one last door, all the doors and cabinets in the new space will be dressed with reproduction oil-rubbed bronze hardware from House of Antiques Hardware (which even reproduced the black porcelain knobs and escutcheons that were original to the house).

Part 1: Installing a Fire Escape

Steve Forman (from Redi-Exit) joins Bob to talk about the extruded-aluminum escape ladder installed at the project house. Forman stresses that secondary exits from bedrooms would greatly reduce fire deaths in this country. Smoke detectors can alert residents, but only a means of escape can save them.

Bob Vila undertakes the partial remodel of a historic Victorian home in Rowley, MA. The house is a classic New England gem with many partitioned rooms, plus the added appeal of a large yard with preserved wetlands beyond. From permits and approvals to the addition of a mudroom and deck, this project focuses on family space.